Cayman Islands answers Canadian demand with more flights

March 4, 2024

As travel continues to rebound following the pandemic, the Cayman Islands continues to steadily climb back to 2019’s arrival levels and market share.

Last year the destination saw record-breaking arrivals including the destination’s best Q1 and best ever March on record for Canadian visitation.

The steady increase in Canadian visitation has also led to an increase in airlift to five non-stop flights a week to Grand Cayman thanks to augmented summer schedules.

More flights from Air Canada & WestJet

The heightened demand for Canadian travel to The Cayman Islands has resulted in boosted flight frequency by both Air Canada and WestJet.

Both airlines will increase the number of non-stop flights from Toronto to Grand Cayman to a combined seven a week from March to April 2024 and up to five a week through the summer.

Combined, Air Canada and WestJet will offer up to seven non-stop flights per week from Toronto to Grand Cayman in March and April.

An increased summer schedule will see up to five non-stop flights per week from Toronto to Grand Cayman on Air Canada and WestJet.

Last year, visits from Canada were 44 per cent higher than those from January to December 2022 and for the first time in a year, more than 4,000 Canadian visitors were welcomed in three months (February, March and December). Three of the best 10 performing months for Canadian visitation in recorded history were in 2023.

Canadian arrivals in December 2023 totalled 4,125, up 7.8 per cent from December 2019. Canada represented an 8.3 per cent share of total stayover arrivals in December 2023, compared to 7.1 per cent in December 2019.

In 2023, the destination welcomed a total of 429,284 stay-over visitors.

There’s a mystery cruise happening in April 2025

February 21, 2024

Windstar Cruises just announced its first-ever “President’s Mystery Cruise” set to depart on April 19, 2025. 

The eight-day voyage is aimed at Windstar Yacht Club members (the line’s valued repeat guests) and their friends and will depart from and return to Athens. The rest of the port calls on the itinerary will remain a mystery to guests onboard Windstar’s 312-passenger, all-suite Star Legend.

The unannounced destinations will be kept a secret from guests until 24 hours ahead of arrival at each port. Once the exact locations are revealed, Windstar guests will be able to choose from a variety of different shore excursions at the destination. 

So where will the Star Legend be docking? Windstar says travellers can expect lots of new, thrilling, and exciting experiences during this voyage. 

“It’s going to be a lot of places—the majority of them, if not all of them—we haven’t been before,” said Windstar’s president Christopher Prelog.

For more details, visit www.windstarcruises.com.

 

An expedition yacht with 6 suites arrives in the Galapagos

February 14, 2024

Conservation-led luxury travel company &Beyond has announced the extension of its South America portfolio with the launch of an expedition yacht in the Galapagos Islands.

Named the &Beyond Galapagos Explorer, the 38 m (124 ft) yacht will operate on two 7-night routes in the east and west of the famed Galapagos Islands.

Boasting just six suites and cabins, the yacht will cater for a maximum of 12 guests, with two expert guides present on each departure.

With only 12 guests on board, the elevated guest-to-staff ratio makes the Galapagos Explorer the most exclusive yacht operating in the islands. In addition to the highest level of guiding, the vessel will also offer beautifully appointed spacious indoor and outdoor guest areas, as well as four exquisite cabins and two luxury suites. Currently undergoing an extensive refurbishment of its interiors, the &Beyond Galapagos Explorer will set sail on its first departure on June 17,  2024.

About the Galapagos voyage

Operating on two different seven-night itineraries, the &Beyond Galapagos Explorer will offer the choice of discovering the east or the west of the main cluster of islands, while including the highlights of the destination in both.

Highlights of the eastern itinerary include the magnificent formation of Kicker Rock, located just off San Cristóbal Island, as well as sightings of the critically endangered waved albatross in Gardner Bay on Española Island. The western Itinerary features highlights that include exploring the geographical centre of the Galapagos Islands, Sombrero Chino Island as well as close encounters with the rare Santa Fe land iguana on Santa Fe Island.

Both itineraries present plenty of opportunities for land and sea adventures such as snorkelling, hiking and birdwatching, as well as a plethora of unique and interesting land, air and marine species. Rates for both itineraries begin from USD $10,950 per person sharing per seven-night cruise.

 

Cruise giant is expanding its fleet for 2028

February 12, 2024

Royal Caribbean Group has entered into an agreement with French shipbuilder Chantiers de l’Atlantique to order a seventh Oasis Class ship for delivery to its Royal Caribbean International fleet in 2028.

“While we eagerly anticipate the debut of Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas this summer, we’re already dreaming up her sister ship and the next installation in the brand’s extremely popular Oasis Class,” said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. “Across our three brands, we are focused on continuously challenging ourselves to deliver the ultimate vacation experience.”

The recent announcement follows Royal Caribbean Group’s recent introduction of three new ships including Silver Nova, Celebrity Ascent and Icon of the Seas.

“These are exciting times for Royal Caribbean, and we have an incredible partner in Chantiers de l’Atlantique to bring to life the lucky seventh Oasis Class vessel of what is a remarkable class of ships,” added Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International.

Cruising innovation

Since the 2009 introduction of the original gamechanger, Oasis of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class has delivered memorable vacations to millions of families and adventurers of all ages. The renowned ships revolutionized cruising with innovations, from the debut of the neighborhood concept to the first-ever split superstructure design and entertainment across air, ice, water and stage, and the next in the lineup will continue that legacy with the latest combination of bold revolutionary, evolutionary and signature experiences.

“This order signals Royal Caribbean Group’s continued confidence in our partnership that has delivered some of the most innovative ships at sea,” said Laurent Castaing, general manager, Chantiers de l’Atlantique. “We look forward to building upon this relationship as we help bring this ship to life.”

This order is contingent upon financing, which is expected to be completed later this year.

For more information on Royal Caribbean Group and its brands, visit www.royalcaribbeangroup.com.

You can now fly directly to Osaka, Japan from Toronto

February 7, 2024

Air Canada has unveiled a new seasonal, direct service between Toronto and Osaka.

Flights between Pearson International Airport and Kansai International Airport will run three times a week from June 17 to Oct. 25, 2024, onboard the Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. Paired with increased frequency on their popular Vancouver-Osaka flight, this will more than double Air Canada’s capacity to Osaka, compared to the previous summer.

Direct service to Japan

Japan continues to be an expanding market for the airline, which has steadily increased both their capacity and number of direct routes to accommodate the demand.

During peak summer season this year, Air Canada will offer more than 12,000 seats a week between Canada and Japan, resulting in an overall capacity increase of approximately 20 per cent compared with last summer.

Air Canada currently runs direct flights between:

  • Toronto-Osaka (KIX) *Seasonal
  • Toronto-Tokyo (HND)
  • Toronto-Tokyo (NRT)
  • Montreal-Tokyo (NRT)
  • Vancouver-Osaka (KIX) *Seasonal
  • Vancouver-Tokyo (NRT)

A vibrant city

Thanks to its continual growth and development, Japan is now more accessible than ever for Canadian tourists, opening a direct gateway for visitors to experience the land of the rising sun for themselves.

Osaka is a vibrant city best known for its food, fun and nightlife.  A convenient 30-minute train ride from Kansai International Airport, it is a gateway not only to the Kansai region but to the rest of Western Japan, with convenient access to the many attractions in Kyoto, Nara, Hiroshima, Fukuoka, Nagasaki and beyond.

The biggest cruise ship in the world just sailed into Miami

January 17, 2024

Royal Caribbean International’s highly anticipated Icon of the Seas arrived in Miami for the first time on Jan. 22.

The first-of-its-kind combination of the best of every vacation was welcomed with fanfare by air, land and sea, ahead of its official debut on Jan. 27.

Local residents and Royal Caribbean fans, executives and employees were on hand as the first to see Miami’s newest resident.

Icon arrived to PortMiami in style, with celebratory fireboat salutes, banner planes in flight and a community celebration at Pérez Art Museum to mark the new vacation’s first appearance of many to come in the Magic City. Icon will continue making its final preparations in Miami ahead of an iconic naming celebration and first cruise.

On board Icon

In store on Icon is an all-encompassing lineup of experiences that combines the best of every vacation – from the beach retreat to the resort escape and the theme park adventure – making the first-of-its-kind adventure the way to get away for every type of family and vacationer.

Across eight neighborhoods are favourites for everyone day and night, including adrenaline-pumping thrills like six record-breaking waterslides at Category 6 and the Crown’s Edge experience at 154 feet above the ocean, and seven pools including the first suspended infinity pool at sea.

he game-changing experiences also include a stay-all-day neighbourhood designed for families with young kids, more than 40 restaurants, bars and lounges; deck-defying entertainment across air, ice, water and theatre and more.

 

The perfect day

The game-changing experiences also include a stay-all-day neighbourhood designed for families with young kids, more than 40 restaurants, bars and lounges; deck-defying entertainment across air, ice, water and theatre and more.

Starting Jan. 27, vacationers can get away on Icon and island hop in the tropics at any time of the year. Each seven-night Eastern or Western Caribbean adventure from Miami features idyllic destinations in the Caribbean and an unmatched day of thrill and chill at Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas.

Plus, dialing up the perfect on Perfect Day in January 2024 is the private island’s first adults-only escape, Hideaway Beach, an all-day experience complete with a private beach and pools, new dedicated spots for drinks and bites, exclusive cabanas, live music and more.

For more details about Icon, including vacations now open to book, vacationers can visit Royal Caribbean’s website. 

Seven European Christmas market cruises to try

December 13, 2023

With the holidays right around the corner, Viking is celebrating its Christmas market voyages for the 2023 river season.

Sailing Viking’s Longship fleet, guests can celebrate an Old World Christmas on special sailings through the season featuring illuminated Christmas markets, regional holiday specialties, and handmade gifts.

On board Viking’s Longships, guests can find musical performances, tree trimming, and cooking demonstrations as part of their daily programming. With departure dates running late November through December, the Christmas market itineraries explore cities and small towns across Austria, Germany, France, Hungary, and more.

 

Christmas market itineraries

  • NEW Christmas on the Rhine & Moselle – New this holiday season is the scenic 12-day cruise tour will have guests browse through stalls full of local delicacies and handicrafts at the charming Christmas markets of Trier, Koblenz and Mannheim and admire the festive seasonal displays in Paris.
  • NEW Christmas on the Main & Moselle – Also new is this river voyage that will immerse guests in French, German and Czech traditions. Explore Christmas markets in quaint German towns, like Heidelberg and Cochem, sample tasty yuletide dishes in chic Paris, and visit castles and cathedrals that are adorned with festive displays.
  • Christmas on the Rhine – This 8-day voyage is a joyful celebration of festive cheer. Guests will journey through storybook villages, while sampling tasty yuletide treats and browsing colorful stalls for handcrafted ornaments. They will admire the twinkling lights of Cologne and revel in the merry atmosphere of the Rhine Valley.
  • Christmas on the Seine –This 8-day voyage will explore Paris, France’s twinkling “City of Light”, sail through the snow-covered landscapes of Normandy’s, and admire the scenes of fairy-tale villages along the way. Onboard festivities include regional dining specialties, seasonal treats, and more to celebrate the holidays.
  • Christmas on the Danube – Guests will discover medieval towns and quaint villages along the “Blue Danube.” Guests will be able to stroll among the stalls at Budapest’s Christmas market, be immersed in the cheerful atmosphere of Vienna as they shop for handmade decorations and visit the fairy-tale village of Regensburg. 
  • Danube Christmas Delights – Passing through Europe’s most enchanting countries, guests will stop to explore cultural capitals and fairy-tale villages, savor Austro-Hungarian cuisine, admire the Wachau Valley’s beauty, and take part in European holiday traditions.
  • Christmas Along the Elbe – During this 10-day cruisetour, guests will take part in time-honored European holiday traditions. The itinerary will provide guests the opportunity to revel in Berlin’s festive atmosphere, shop for handmade porcelain in Meissen, and delve into Prague’s Jewish history while its famed Christmas market exudes an abundance of good cheer.

Five incredible spots to charter your own yacht in 2024

December 11, 2023

Yacht charters provide a unique form of escapism, offering a holiday experience like no other.

Each day brings a sense of freedom as you wake up aboard your vessel, eager to discover the next destination. With charter companies now offering flexible booking terms, you can plan your 2024 getaway with absolute peace of mind.

Discover the top destinations for yacht charters in 2024, allowing you to plan your next voyage in some of the most sought-after locations around the globe.

Norway

With its breathtaking fjords, abundant wildlife, and numerous islands, Norway is an incredible destination away from crowded tourist spots. For the longest days and ample sunlight, consider visiting from April to July. Explore Norway with the Lagoon 51 Nordvaer on a yacht charter.

Mauritius

Mauritius offers beautiful anchorages, crystal-clear snorkelling spots, unspoilt beaches, and exotic natural beauty. The Nautitech Catamaran is the ideal vessel for exploring the wonders of Mauritius, including safari experiences and spotting whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.

Indonesia

With over 17,000 islands, Indonesia provides endless opportunities for exploration. From the Pink Beach in Flores to famous dive sites in Raja Ampat, Indonesia offers once-in-a-lifetime experiences and incredible marine life. Sailing on a luxury traditional Indonesian Phinisi allows you to charter and witness the best of Indonesia.

British Virgin Islands

One of the world’s most popular charter bases, the BVI’s are home to sensational cruising grounds and infamous beach bars. With around 60 Caribbean islands, the BVI’s offer ultimate peace and tranquillity, with consistent warm trade winds and clear conditions for a smooth ride. November to March is an ideal time to visit, avoiding hurricane season in September.

Pula, Croatia

A favourite holiday spot for European royalty and aristocracy, Pula in Croatia is a must-see destination. The region of Istria, known for its wine, offers wine-tasting experiences and sensational seafood restaurants. Explore the Brijuni National Park and enjoy excellent sailing in this northern corner of the Dalmatian Coast.

This cruise line is now offering 22-day trips in South America

November 10, 2023

Bookings are now open for Holland America Line’s 2025-2026 South America and Antarctica season.

Featuring a series of longer cruises up to 22 days, guests can experience the region’s captivating blend of diverse cultures, breathtaking natural landscapes and rich historical heritage — including 16 UNESCO World Heritage sites and UNESCO Biosphere Reserves.

From November 2025 through March 2026, Oosterdam cruises between San Antonio (Santiago), Chile, and either Buenos Aires, Argentina, or Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Iconic sites

The itineraries offer once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for travellers, showcasing the iconic sites of South America like Iguazu Falls, Machu Picchu and Torres del Paine National Park, along with Antarctica’s memorable scenery and wildlife. 

Oosterdam sails in Antarctica

Holland America Line 2025–2026 South America cruises visit 16 UNESCO World Heritage sites and UNESCO Biosphere Reserves, including major tourism attractions like the Galapagos Islands and Machu Picchu. 

Authentic experiences 

On South America and Antarctic cruises, Holland America Line brings local flavors on board. Guests enjoy fresh, locally sourced specialties such as Chilean salmon, stuffed empanadas, and world-renowned wines including Malbec, Carménère, Torrontés and more.

On immersive shore excursions, guests can visit an indigenous Emberá tribe, meet a real Chilean huaso (cowboy), learn to craft a traditional Panama hat or enjoy an intimate dinner at an Argentine “closed-door restaurant.”

For more information, visit hollandamerica.com.

Canadian airline adds summer flights to Stockholm

November 1, 2023

Air Canada is expanding its presence in Scandinavia with new summer seasonal flights to Stockholm.

Three weekly flights from Montreal and two weekly flights from Toronto will begin June 12, 2024. The airline will also be increasing capacity on its year-round Copenhagen flights from Toronto with daily flights beginning May 1, 2024 until Oct. 31, and will resume seasonal flights from Montreal earlier on May 2, 2024, increasing up to five weekly flights in June.

Air Canada first launched service to Scandinavia in 2010 with flights from Toronto to Copenhagen. In 2023, the airline expanded its presence in Copenhagen with the addition of new flights from Montreal to Copenhagen.

Air Canada plans to operate 100 per cent of its peak summer 2019 trans-Atlantic capacity next year, taking full advantage of the robust recovery in its largest international market.

Flights will be operated with Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft featuring three cabins of service for customers to choose from, including Signature Class with lie-flat seats, Premium Economy and Economy Class.

Seats are available for purchase now at aircanada.com, via the Air Canada App, Air Canada’s Contact Centres, and travel agents.